1985 Buick Wildcat Concept

While many Buick concept cars emphasized expressive styling, the Wildcat turned the spotlight on performance and Buick’s signature V-6 engine.

The Buick V-6 was the centerpiece of the division’s motorsports program in the ’80s and ’90s. The Wildcat took performance to the next level with four-wheel drive and a rear-mounted engine prepared by noted racing specialist McLaren Engines. Based on Buick’s 3.8-liter V-6 block, the experimental powerplant has 24 valves, dual overhead camshafts and programmable sequential-port fuel injection. The formidable V-6 is visible through an opening in the Wildcat’s rear deck.

 

In Detail

price $	$ Prototype
engine	DOHC 24 Valve V6
displacement	3785 cc / 231.0 in³
power	268.5 kw / 360.0 bhp @ 7000 rpm
specific output	95.11 bhp per litre
bhp/weight	272.73 bhp per tonne
torque	540.0 nm / 398.3 ft lbs @ 5000 rpm
driven wheels	Mid Engine / 4WD
front brakes	Vented Discs w/ABS
rear brakes	Vented Discs w/ABS
curb weight	1320 kg / 2910 lbs
wheelbase	2591 mm / 102.0 in
front track	1511 mm / 59.5 in
rear track	1511 mm / 59.5 in
length	4387 mm / 172.7 in
width	1836 mm / 72.3 in
height	1110 mm / 43.7 in
transmission	4-Speed Auto
top speed	~289.7 kph / 180.0 mph
0 – 60 mph	~4.5 seconds